Moisten materials as you add them and leave a concave depression at the top of the pile to capture rain. The composting pile should be kept about as damp as a wrung out sponge. It is a good idea to cover the composting pile during periods of very high moisture.

Add water as needed to maintain correct moisture.

Turn, fluff or aerate the composting pile every week.

The composting is complete (approximately 3 to 6 months) when it is dark brown-black, crumbly and sweet smelling. The temperature of the pile will also drop to ambient air temperature from a composting temperature of 120° - 150° F (48° - 66° C) when composting is complete.

Age one month after removal from your bin before using as a soil amendment (it should be fully decomposed!).